Ohma Hosts a Women’s Audio Mission Workshop

Written by: Char Gibbs

November 9, 2024

Time to read min

Ohma recently had the honor of hosting a microphone workshop for Women’s Audio Mission, and it was an absolute blast. We dove deep into the science of sound, discussing everything from Faraday’s Law to the inner workings of microphone tech. It was a nerdy, hands-on experience, and we loved every minute of it!

The workshop brought together an incredible group of women and gender expansive folks in audio, each one passionate about their craft. We’re always inspired by people who are as curious about audio as we are, and it was fantastic to share our knowledge and learn from everyone who attended.

A Workshop with a Purpose

WAM is a nonprofit organization dedicated to advancing women and gender-expansive individuals in music, audio production, and creative technology—fields where representation is critically low. With fewer than 5% of the creators behind the music and sounds we hear daily being women or gender-expansive individuals, and a 70% decline in STEM enrollment for these groups since 2000, WAM’s mission is vital.

Char gibbs hosts microphone design event

The workshop took place at the Ohma studio and was led by Char Gibbs , President and Founder of Ohma World. Char, who is non-binary and a long-time advocate for WAM’s mission, shared their expertise with an audience eager to learn about microphone technology and design.

Char began by sharing the story of Ohma’s journey—what it takes to build a company in today’s world, and the challenges and triumphs of crafting high-quality microphones that are both innovative and customizable. They also provided a detailed look into Ohma’s manufacturing process, including the intricate work of making capsules in-house, tuning ribbons, and ensuring every microphone meets the highest standards.

Learning the Art and Science of Microphones

Participants gained hands-on knowledge of microphone technology, diving into how microphones are constructed and how each component plays a role in the final product. Char explained the testing processes and shared tips for recording with Ohma microphones, offering attendees a deep understanding of the artistry and engineering behind each mic.

The workshop also included a lively Q&A session, where participants could ask Char anything—from technical questions about microphone components to broader inquiries about building a career in the audio industry. This dialogue created a space for personalized learning and deeper exploration of the topics that resonated most with the attendees.

Customizing Microphones at “The Mountain”

One of the most exciting aspects of the workshop was the opportunity for participants to customize their own microphones. At Ohma, we’ve always been passionate about offering unique, artist-driven customization options, and this event was no exception.

Using our customizable workspace, affectionately called “The Mountain,” attendees designed and built their own microphones. They selected screens, mic types, and finishes, making each mic a true reflection of their personal style and artistic vision. This hands-on experience allowed participants to connect with the creative process and gain insight into the level of detail that goes into every Ohma mic.

Taking Home the Experience

Many participants left the workshop with demo Ohma microphones to try in their own spaces. This wasn’t just about learning—it was about empowering attendees to integrate new tools into their creative workflows and bring their unique sound to life.

Why Events Like This Matter

This workshop was more than just a learning opportunity; it was about empowerment and representation. By fostering creativity and offering hands-on experiences, events like this inspire women and gender-expansive individuals to see themselves as creators and innovators in an industry that has historically lacked diversity.

We’re honored to support WAM and their mission to create opportunities for underrepresented voices in audio and technology. It’s collaborations like these that remind us of the importance of community, knowledge-sharing, and innovation.